Recent advances in the diagnosis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Molecular technologies offer the greatest potential for laboratories in resource-rich countries because they have the highest sensitivity and specificity. Continued use of new technologies will be crucial in elucidating the true epidemiology and pathogenesis of a disease, including the less well studied diseases. Continued development of affordable, sensitive, and specific diagnostic tools will be required for use in resource-poor settings, where the incidence of disease is highest.